Shoplifting gangs are costing UK businesses £18bn a year and forcing shops to raise prices, Poundland founder warns

From the Newshound archive · first published 19 September 2026.

Steve Smith, co-founder of Poundland, witnessed a man steal a sandwich, crisps and a drink from a Birmingham Greggs last week — then return for more after staff challenged him. He estimates shoplifting is costing UK retailers £18bn annually, nearly double the official figure, and warns prices are rising in towns worst hit by theft. Police recorded 502,011 shoplifting offences across England and Wales in 2025-26, still 50% above pre-pandemic levels despite a 5% fall from the 2024-25 record high.

A national police unit, Opal, says 22 migrant criminals were deported after shoplifting convictions, with gangs jailed for a combined 118 years.

Organised 'shop theft tourism' is emerging, with foreign nationals flying into the UK for short trips specifically to raid stores, Opal's former head says.

Cambridgeshire Police's Det Insp Chris O'Brien warns that well-paid professionals steal 'for the thrill of it' on their lunch breaks.